Monday, January 20, 2014

Khim Wah-V Shem claim doubles title… at last

BUKIT JALIL: Lim Khim Wah-Goh V Shem finally nailed their first Super Series title.
And what better way to mark their breakthrough than in front of a
vociferous home crowd cheering them all the way at the Putra Stadium.

Understandably, the duo just could not hold back their delight as
they jumped up in joy after scoring the winning point as a wild
celebration erupted inside the stadium.

On Sunday, the duo proved to be the new heroes for the country when
they dumped China’s Chai Biao and Hong Wei 21-19, 21-18 to claim the
title at the Maybank Malaysian Open.
The Malaysian fans joined in the celebration and one can hardly blame
them as they have been starved of a men’s doubles major title for the
last four years.

Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong were the last pair to win a Super Series title, also at home in 2010.
Khim Wah-V Shem emulate the feat in their three-year partnership which was marred by several break-ups.

But on Sunday, they hit all the right notes to combine superbly to
announce their arrival as another pair Malaysia can depend on at
international level.

The opening game saw a ding-dong battle with both pairs separated by
only one point. With the cheering Malaysian crowd urging them on for
very point, Khim Wah-V Shem piled on the pressure against the powerful
lanky Chinese shuttlers to pull away for a 21-19 win.

The second game was like a psychological warfare as both pairs
resorted to mind games. They tried to intimidate each other with
gestures and cold stares.

It worked initially for the Chinese as they strolled to a five-point lead.
But after the breather, the Malaysians stepped up a gear and staged
an outstanding comeback. They pushed the Chinese to make all the
mistakes and trooped off as winners.

V Shem was elated that they made the breakthrough at home.

“I believe the Chinese pair made the mistake of intimidating us on
our backyard. It caused even louder and bolder support and response from
our fans. It really motivated us to go all out to win,” said V Shem.

“We have worked out our differences. Now, we are united to win honours for the country. This is a great start for the year.”

Khim Wah-V Shem also hope they will not turn out to be one-hit wonders.
“This is a good start for us and we will keep at it. This win here
will only motivate us to produce more results for the country,” said
Khim Wah.

When asked whether they would now be considered the successors to Kien Keat-Boon Heong, Khim Wah was modest.

“We are not here to replace them. We want the whole men’s doubles department to rise up. We will work together.

“We do not want this win to get to our head. We will take it
step-by-step and make sure that we maintain our confidence and continue
with our momentum,” he said.